asked the Minister for Finance if he is now in a position to state the approximate date on which the survey of the River Suir will be completed; the period of time estimated to be needed by the engineers to consider the survey; the approximate date on which he considers that the actual drainage itself will commence; and if, in view of the great damage being done to the fertile valley through which this river flows, he will expedite the date on which drainage will commence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - River Suir Drainage.
11.
There has been no material change in relation to the River Suir catchment since the 13th November, 1962, when I stated in reply to a question by the Deputy that the survey of the catchment could hardly be completed before 1964 or 1965; that a further period would then be required for the preparation of a scheme and compliance with the requirements of the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945 in relation to exhibition etc.; that it was hoped work would start about 1970 but that in a drainage proposal of the magnitude of the Suir catchment proposal I could not make this a definite commitment. I can assure the Deputy that every effort will be made to reach the works stage at the earliest possible date.